Place Of Skulls proves that you don't need screaming vocals, drop D guitars or blast beats to be heavy, but on the contrary, slow, hard hitting, powerful riffs and heart felt vocals weigh you down. Their new album, As a Dog Returns, is saturated with doom and gloom mixed with optimism and faith. It is my top pick for both best Doom Metal album and best Christian Metal album for 2010!

Not only are these guys massive live, their latest disc is as well. The production really lets those bluesy doom riffs take center stage, and Victor's vocals and lyrics are delivered with purpose and depth. From the thick opening sounds "The Maker" to the reflective "Though He Slay Me," and finally to my choice in "Timeless Hearts" with its great groove, this is metal that calms while also inspiring the mind and soul.